s

Tag Archives: post concussional disorder

Baby strollers and carriers: Head injuries, traumatic brain injury and other hazards

Researchers looking at injuries caused by strollers and baby carriers have noted an increased number of children suffering a concussion or traumatic brain injury (TBI). They compared statistics of accident injuries from 1990 until 2010 and saw a marked increase in these diagnoses following head injury. However, it is still unclear whether the spike is related to more dangerous stroller design and manufacturing. An alternative theory is that it can be attributed to more parents bringing their children to a doctor or emergency room for evaluation of possible wounds or more astute diagnosis by doctors. Public safety advocates say that some parents may be more aware of more subtle injuries than they used to, driving them in larger numbers to seek evaluation and treatment for their baby. Some believe that increased public education on the seriousness of head injury and the long-term effects of cognitive function following a concussion (post-concussional disorder) may have led to these changing statistics. Whatever the cause, activists say that continued pressure on manufacturers and government regulatory agencies is necessary to continue to improve child safety, prevent dangerous or defective products from being sold and maintain product liability to prevent negligence. Dangerous product recalls are one way that industry and governmental bodies maintain responsibility and prevent injury or death. You can see more details about the recent baby stroller hazard study here.

Illustrative photo credit: Matthew Yglesias [License]